Historic Scotland at the hand of Robert the Bruce

7 July 2008

Historic Scotland announce details of a re-enactment event taking place at St Andrews Castle on Sunday 20 July. At the Hands of Bruce will see the castle taken over by Robert the Bruce and his men, taking visitors back to medieval times and a period of uncertainty and unrest in Scotland.

Re-enactment group Carrick 800 will bring St Andrews Castle and the times of Robert the Bruce to life, giving visitors a real insight into ‘the man’; his life and the life of his men, and delve into the gripping story of how he became king of Scotland in 1306 following the murder of his rival to the throne.

Throughout the afternoon there will be a thrilling show of arms, with weapon and combat demonstrations to wow the crowds. Visitors will also see swords, spears and axe in action in a display that will transport everyone back to the 14th century.

Nick Finnigan, Events and Filming Manager, said;

“St Andrews Castle is a fantastic setting for At the Hands of Bruce and we are looking forward to a fun-packed day. Visitors will be taken on a journey to medieval times where everyday people, like themselves, had the chance to join Robert the Bruce or die by his hands.

“As well as all the drama, displays and demonstrations there will be the chance for visitors to wander round the soldiers’ camp, which will feature authentic medieval crafts, and they can meet with the castle gaoler, who guards the prisoners, making sure there is something for people of all ages to enjoy.”

At the Hands of Bruce will take place at St Andrews Castle on Sunday 20 July from 12noon to 16.00. The event is included in the admission to the castle. For further information please visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/events

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NOTES FOR EDITORS

St Andrews Castle is in St Andrews on the A91. The postcode is KY16 9AR. Tel: 01334 477 196.

The castle is open all year 21 March to 30 September 09.30 to 17.30 and 1 October to 31 March 09.30 to 16.30. Admission prices are: Adults £5.20, Children £2.60 and Concessions £4.20.

On a headland to the north of St Andrews stand the ruins of the castle, the main residence of the bishops and archbishops of St Andrews – the focal point of the Church in medieval Scotland. Today visitors can explore the underground 16th-century siege mine and counter-mine, and the ‘bottle dungeon’. There is a visitor centre with an exhibition.

Each year Historic Scotland hosts a full programme of events at properties across Scotland, designed to entertain and educate people of all ages. Full details of the programme of events can be found online at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/events

For the best value, Historic Scotland membership offers free entry to all sites and free entry to day events. Membership can be purchased from as little as £6 a month for a family package.

On request Historic Scotland can provide advance photography and interviews with members of the living history groups and event facilitators.

Historic Scotland has 345 outstanding historic properties and sites in its care. These include some of the leading tourism attractions in the country, including Edinburgh, Stirling, and Urquhart castles, Fort George, Linlithgow Palace, the Border Abbeys and Skara Brae. A full list can be found online at www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/places

Historic Scotland’s mission is to safeguard Scotland’s historic environment and to promote its understanding and enjoyment.

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